People who work hard should be able to meet basic needs and support their families. A parent working full time at the minimum wage of $7.25 makes barely $15,000 a year, less than the poverty level for a family of two.

Out of that small wage, they then pay almost one dollar out of every 10 they earn in state taxes. A state earned income tax credit is a very effective way to help working families make ends meet.

Earned income tax credits not only help parents support their families now, they also improve their lives and the future lives of their children. Children whose families receive the earned income tax credit when they are young are healthier, do better in school, and work more and earn more as adults.

A state earned income tax credit is a small investment that would make a big difference for working families. This tax credit would pay for itself.

Karen Crompton, president, Voices for Utah Children

Salt Lake City

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